The Mpox virus has once again pulled global attention following the recent surge in the number of cases reported within Africa especially with the Democratic Republic of Congo being the epicentre of the outbreak.
Mpox is a viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus, belonging to the Orthopoxvirus genus. The virus has two main types: Clade I and Clade II. The strain Clade IIb was responsible for the global outbreak of Mpox that occurred between the years 2022 and 2023.
Note: The term “Mpox” is preferred over “Monkeypox” due to racial connotations. We will use “Mpox” in this article according to international standards.
According to an epidemic intelligence report issued by the Africa CDC (Centres for Disease Control and Prevention) there have been close to 19,000 reported cases with over 3,000 confirmed cases and more than 500 deaths across 12 African countries since the start of the year. Thankfully, no deaths have been recorded in Nigeria.
On August 14, the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, declared Mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) and also noted that the virus can spread beyond Africa. Hence, a need for quick interventions to curtail its spread to prevent another epidemic of Mpox.
Recently, the Nigeria Center for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), said it has recorded 39 cases of Mpox so far this year amid a surge in infections across Africa. So far, Mpox cases have been confirmed in Bayelsa, Cross River, Ogun, and Lagos states. According to the NCDC, these states are the most affected by the outbreak. In the wake of these happenings, the State Ministry of Health has sprung into action by deploying medical teams to both general and specialist hospitals that are prepared to handle emergencies and provide essential care.
The Alexander Brown Hall community is comprised of individuals from diverse backgrounds and locations across the country. In light of recent developments related to the Mpox virus, we are issuing this important health notice to ensure the safety and well-being of all Brownites.
Mpox is easily spread through close contact with an infected person through touch, kissing, or sex; contaminated materials such as clothes or bedsheets; or infected animals. It typically presents with a skin rash or mucosal lesions lasting two to three weeks. Other symptoms to watch out for include fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes. Children, pregnant women, and those with deficient immune systems are more at risk of experiencing more severe symptoms and complications.
For Mpox, there is no definitive treatment, only supportive management. However, Smallpox vaccines and certain approved therapeutics can be effective against Mpox but prevention remains the most effective at keeping Mpox at bay. This involves avoiding contact with infected individuals and considering vaccination if at risk.
Given the potential for travel to areas where Mpox cases have been reported, it is crucial to be vigilant and take appropriate precautions to prevent the spread of this virus. We urge all Brownites to be aware of the symptoms of Mpox. Report any suspected cases immediately. Practice proper hygiene: frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and avoiding close contact with individuals who are ill.
We are dedicated to providing you with timely updates and ensuring the safety of all members of Alexander Brown Hall. We urge everyone to stay informed and take proactive measures to prevent the spread of Mpox.